KINGS POINT, N.Y., September 30, 2014 – Amphitrite smiled on Third Company of the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) at Kings Point, as they won the USMMA Alumni Foundation sponsored birthday trivia competition today.

Plebe Jacob Moore, competing for his company, correctly answered USMMA Alumni Foundation President Jim Tobin’s final and winning question, “Who was the wife of Poseidon, and Queen of the Sea, in Greek mythology?” a reference to the statue in the fountain near the Academy’s flag pole.

“The trivia contest was an opportunity to give our midshipmen a little history lesson, while having some fun celebrating the Academy’s birthday,” said Tobin. “It is always important to make sure our current midshipmen who are our future Alumni learn about the history and traditions of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.”

In his birthday message, Superintendent Rear Adm. James A. Helis, USMS, Ph.D., said “Academy graduates and the Academy continue to be essential for a vital maritime industry and our strong flexible national defense. As we reflect on our 72 years, we should be optimistic, while being ready to brave whatever challenges lay ahead – ready to lead with action.”

The Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent, Rear Adm. Susan Dunlap, USMS, joined the midshipmen, faculty, staff and alumni in a lunchtime celebration of the Academy’s 72nd birthday in Delano Hall, where the Academy’s youngest midshipman, 17 year-old Plebe William Kelley, had the honor of cutting the school’s birthday cake.

Third Company’s prize, to “rack-in”, sleeping until 7 a.m. tomorrow, was greeted with enthusiastic cheers.

The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, located in Kings Point, N.Y., educates and graduates merchant mariners and leaders of exemplary character who will serve America’s maritime transportation and defense needs in peace and war. The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy is administered by the Maritime Administration under the auspices of the Department of Transportation.